Chelsea bid for Chinese defender

Chelsea have reportedly made a shock offer for Guangzhou Evergrande defender Zhang Linpeng.

The Blues are understood to have agreed fee to sign the Chinese defender, as they seek further reinforcements for Branislav Ivanovic in the right-back role.

"I'm very happy and very excited to finally have this formal invitation," Linpeng told Chinese outlet Titan.

"I've worked hard and waited these five-six years for my dream of playing overseas, and finally have recognition from the English Premier League."

Linpeng has made 144 appearances for the Chinese Super League champions since joining them from Shanghai East Asia in 2010.